As the Earth’s climate continues to change, so too does the availability of freshwater resources. Small islands are at the forefront of freshwater vulnerability and therefore must be ready to adapt. In order to implement effective adaptation measures, accurate projections of future water use are required. This study examines the climate and water use of James Island, British Columbia, during the five-year period 2009–2013. Potential future climate scenarios for James Island, created using the Show moreAs the Earth’s climate continues to change, so too does the availability of freshwater resources. Small islands are at the forefront of freshwater vulnerability and therefore must be ready to adapt. In order to implement effective adaptation measures, accurate projections of future water use are required. This study examines the climate and water use of James Island, British Columbia, during the five-year period 2009–2013. Potential future climate scenarios for James Island, created using the guidelines set forth by the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change 5th Assessment Report are also examined. The future climate projections, along with the climate and irrigation data, are utilized to create a new method for estimating potential future irrigation requirements based on irrigation flow per growing degree-days. Future increase in annual mean temperature of 0.9°C for the 2020s, 1.9°C in the 2050s and 2.8°C in the 2080s suggest an increase in irrigation requirements of 17% in the 2020s, 38.5% in the 2050s and 59% in the 2080s. In conclusion, the merits of alternative irrigation strategies such as water reclamation and desalination are discussed, as well as their potential application for James Island. Show less